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Cusco, Urcos
Begin the Classic Ausangate Trek 4 days and discover the stunning natural beauty of Ausangate, a mountain range characterized by its majestic glaciers. Admire the impressive Ausangate Glacier and its crystal-clear lagoons in vibrant shades of blue and green. Explore the culture of the Andean communities, whose native language is Quechua, and take the opportunity to learn and practice this ancestral tongue.
Discover local traditions and customs, as well as the rich biodiversity that includes llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, condors, and various aquatic birds. You will also have the chance to purchase handmade alpaca wool crafts and textiles created by local communities. It is essential to understand the impact of glacier retreat on local communities and high-altitude agriculture. Join us and experience the natural wonder of Ausangate.
Our adventure begins with pickup from your accommodation at 5:00 am in our private transportation. We drove along the Interoceanic Highway, passing through the small towns of Ccatca and Tinke, and arrived at the starting point of the Ausangate trek: the charming village of Pukarumi (4,100 m / 13,451 ft), nestled amid a mountain range. We met the Ausangate Adventure team, made up of cooks and muleteers. We had breakfast before starting the hike.
Then the uphill adventure toward Mount Ausangate begins, passing cultivated fields and traditional homes. We will reach the Ausangate viewpoint, where we can observe the natural wonders of Mount Ausangate; we will have lunch halfway.
We continue along the trail with panoramic views of the massive Ausangate Glacier (6,372 m / 20,905 ft).
Along the way, we’ll see numerous herds of llamas and alpacas. We will reach the Upis campsite (4,400 m / 14,436 ft). Our first campsite is located in front of the imposing Ausangate. Later on, we’ll enjoy a dinner prepared by our high-mountain chef and rest up for the next day.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: camping.
Difficulty: moderate.
Hiking time: 6 hours.
Highest elevation: 4600 m
Minimum elevation: 3900 m
You’ll start the day with a coca tea or coffee in your tent, giving you the energy boost you need to begin your hike in the high mountains. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a nutritious and energizing breakfast prepared by the high-mountain cook.
We set off from the campsite, hiking for approximately two hours toward Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). From the pass, you can appreciate the impressive scenery amid nature, breathing in pure air. You will have the opportunity to admire the mountain range and may even see the Andean condor in flight; our guide will share knowledge and experiences from the high-Andean communities.
We continue hiking downhill until we reach Yanaqocha Lake (Black Lagoon); we then follow the trail to Hatun Pukaqocha, where we can observe and understand glacial retreat on the summit of Ausangate, and the scenery is magnificent. At this point, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and then ascend for two and a half hours to reach Ausangate Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). From the pass, we descend to the Ausangate Lake campsite at 4,650 m (15,256 ft); it will be our camp for the night.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: camping.
Difficulty: moderate.
Hiking time: 9 hours.
Highest elevation: 4750 m
Minimum elevation: 4600 m
We started early with coca tea or coffee at your tent, sharing an energizing and revitalizing breakfast to sustain us and keep us strong during our challenging and demanding hikes both physically and mentally as we descended and ascended the mountains. We will ascend for about two more hours to Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point on the Ausangate route. After a brief rest and enjoying the views of glaciers, red mountains, and the receding glaciers of Ausangate, we’ll hike for an hour and a half to the small community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 ft), where we’ll have lunch.
Then we’ll ascend for two hours to Soraqocho camp (4,700 m / 15,419 ft); along the way we’ll admire various glacier peaks, bofedales (high-altitude wetlands), rivers, small lakes, chinchillas, alpacas, local shepherds, and llamas. Our campsite will be ready, where we’ll have dinner prepared by the high-mountain chef with ingredients recommended for high-altitude treks, and we’ll spend the night in our personal tents.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: camping.
Difficulty: challenging.
Hiking time: 8 hours.
Highest elevation: 5200 m
Minimum elevation: 4600 m
On the final day of our incredible classic Ausangate trek, we’ll start early with a hearty breakfast to fuel us for the last hike. After breakfast, we’ll set off from Soraqocho camp and head toward Khampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,633 ft), where we’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Ausangate Glacier and a herd of vicuñas in the surrounding mountains. The trail to the pass presents a physical challenge and offers us an opportunity to push our limits in the Andean mountains.
From the Khampa Pass, we will continue our trek, gradually descending through valleys, rocky landscapes, glaciers, and views of alpacas and vicuñas. The trail will take us to explore seven lagoons of Ausangate, and we’ll head to the small village of Pacchanta (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Once in Pacchanta, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the hot springs, an ideal muscle relaxant after hiking the classic Ausangate route.
After a rest and a delicious lunch, we’ll say goodbye to our trekking team, cooks, and muleteers; then we’ll board our private transportation to return to Cusco.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: hotel in Cusco
Difficulty: moderate
Hiking time: approximately 5–6 hours.
Maximum altitude: 5,070 m / 16,633 ft
Minimum altitude: 3,300 m / 10,827 ft
When planning your Classic Ausangate trek, it’s essential to carefully select what you pack due to the high altitude, cold weather, and rugged terrain. Here are some essential items to include in your gear:
We will provide you with a duffel bag to store items you won’t need during the daily hike. Pack horses will carry this duffel bag, but make sure it weighs no more than 8 kg, including your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress.
It is very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a strenuous hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek begins to help your body adjust and avoid potential altitude sickness during the trek. If you’ve already been in another high-altitude region of Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights.
Cusco’s airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by air must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It’s important to note that due to Cusco’s high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any changes in weather can halt air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option, though the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima take about 20 hours to reach Cusco.
Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it is located in Cusco’s Historic Center. During the briefing, your guide will coordinate the pick-up time, but please note that the waiting time may vary between 30 to 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobblestone streets, which can make access difficult to some hotels and Airbnbs. Some locations may be in areas without vehicle access or on steep slopes, making luggage transfer challenging. We recommend booking accommodation with easy access to facilitate transportation.
You can safely leave any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure while you complete your trek. We will take care of storing your luggage in the morning before the hike begins and return it to you once you return to Cusco. Be sure to clearly label your bags to make locating them easier.
Altitude sickness occurs when there is less oxygen available in the air you breathe at high altitudes, like on the Ausangate Circuit. It can affect certain travelers regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. Common symptoms include headaches, loss of appetite, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. While some people may recover quickly, others may experience symptoms for several days if not properly treated. We recommend following these tips to reduce the chances and severity of altitude sickness.
Before embarking on your trip, it’s advisable to talk to your doctor. They may recommend taking acetazolamide (Diamox), a medication that can help reduce symptoms if taken one or two days before starting your trip.
It’s important to stay properly hydrated. Drink plenty of water before and during your stay. Some people find saline nasal solutions, in the form of drops or sprays, beneficial.
Upon arrival, it’s advisable to take it easy and allow your body to adjust by lying down for 10 to 15 minutes. Try to rest as much as possible during your journey, as overexertion can worsen symptoms.
Before going to high-altitude locations, it’s recommended to follow a light diet. Opt for easily digestible foods like fish, chicken, and hot soups. Avoid fatty foods, beef, lamb, and beverages with caffeine or alcohol.
Coca tea, mint, and muña (an Andean herb) can help alleviate symptoms.
Using oxygen appropriately will be beneficial for your recovery.
The weather in the Ausangate region is extremely variable. It can start off favorable but change in a short amount of time. Nights are usually cold, with average temperatures around -10°C (14°F), while during the day, temperatures range between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The cold wind is constant, and you can expect rain or snow at any time. Despite these unpredictable conditions, the adventure of the 4-day trek to the sacred Ausangate Mountain in the Cusco Andes will be an unforgettable experience. It is essential to be prepared with proper clothing and gear for various weather conditions and maintain a positive attitude and adaptability to changes. The beauty of the landscape and the sense of accomplishment at the end of the trek will make every challenge worth it.
Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid. When accompanying you on the hike, they will carry a first aid kit for basic medical situations and oxygen. They will ensure your safety. In case something unexpected happens and you feel you can no longer complete the hike, they will determine the safest and fastest way to get you off the trail and to a clinic in Cusco.
All meals and snacks will be provided during the entire trek, up until the last lunch on the Ausangate trek. We understand you may be curious about the quality of our food. While each meal is prepared by a chef in a small tent on a small stove, our clients are always satisfied with the excellence of our dishes. Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. At the end of each hiking day, a delicious dinner cooked in the heart of the Andes awaits you, sure to exceed your expectations for food on the Ausangate trek.
We use fresh ingredients purchased from the Cusco market and transported by packhorses led by our muleteers. These ingredients are then prepared by our chefs to ensure each dish is fresh, healthy, and delicious.
Do you have special dietary needs? Don’t worry, we are prepared to meet the needs of vegetarians, vegans, and people with food allergies.
Ausangate Adventure will ensure water is available at every meal. The water will be boiled, purified, and cooled before being served to our clients, ensuring it’s safe to drink. However, for the first morning of the trek, you must bring your own water as we prepare for the journey. It’s recommended to start the hike with 2-3 liters of water, so make sure you have a large enough bottle or a camelback to store it.
At Ausangate Adventure, we use naturally degradable soap and ensure we take all our trash back to Cusco. Our muleteers are trained to keep the trails clean and pick up waste. Additionally, we are committed to preserving and conserving our environment by managing waste responsibly. We adopt practices that minimize our environmental impact.
Protests and strikes are common in Peru and may affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked, and trains may be stopped. However, we will do our best to keep your original itinerary, even if it means departing a night earlier. In some cases, trips may be canceled. If there are any changes, our operations team will communicate with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.
Please take special care of your belongings and make sure to collect everything before leaving our vehicles, campsites, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the trek.
Shared Service.
Price: 450 USD per person.
This shared or group service means that you will be taking the tour with other people. This standard service is conducted with a group of 10 to 16 people, with available departures. So, if you are just one or two people, don't worry, you can join one of our groups.
Private Service.
This private and exclusive service with daily departures is a way to take this trip where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary according to the number of travelers: one, two, three, four, or more travelers. Please, if you want private service, request information at info@ausangateadventure.com or through our WhatsApp at +51 914201334.
The classic Ausangate trek is a high-altitude hiking itinerary that traverses the Vilcanota mountain range in Peru. It is a challenging trek covering approximately 43 kilometers, crossing high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and remote Andean communities.
The duration of the Ausangate trek varies from 4 to 5 days, depending on the route chosen and the hiking pace. In general, most hikers complete the trek in around 4 days, although this may vary. It’s important to plan ahead and consider weather and altitude conditions when preparing for this high-mountain hiking experience in the Vilcanota range of Peru.
The most favorable time to undertake the Ausangate trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this period, the weather is more stable and dry, making it easier to hike through the mountains. Conditions are generally safer and more pleasant for hikers, with less chance of rain and better visibility of the stunning landscapes in the Vilcanota range.
The highest point of the Ausangate trek is at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) at the Ausangate Pass. This challenging trek requires hikers to acclimate to the altitude beforehand. Spending several days adjusting to the altitude is recommended to avoid health issues. With spectacular landscapes that include glacial lakes and Andean communities, this trek offers a unique experience in the Vilcanota mountain range of Peru.
For the Ausangate trek, it’s crucial to pack the right gear. It is recommended to bring thermal clothing, a quality sleeping bag, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a spacious backpack. Additionally, trekking poles are helpful for uneven terrain, and a headlamp is essential for extra lighting. Don’t forget to include some energy snacks and a basic first aid kit.
The safety of the classic Ausangate trek depends on several factors, including physical preparation and experience with high-altitude trekking. While generally safe, it is a challenging trek that requires caution and respect for the natural environment. It is essential to follow the recommendations of expert guides, bring the proper equipment, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. With proper preparation and awareness of the risks involved, the Ausangate trek can be a rewarding and safe experience for those ready to face the challenge.
It is advisable to have an experienced guide for the Ausangate trek, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area or if it is your first time hiking at high altitudes. A guide will not only provide route guidance and advice on terrain conditions, but they can also offer expert advice on safety and first aid. Additionally, a guide can enrich your experience by providing information about the history, culture, and local flora and fauna.
The starting point of the Ausangate trek is usually the town of Tinki, located approximately 3 hours from Cusco. You can reach Tinki by bus or private vehicle from Cusco. Typically, your tour operator will arrange transportation for you.
The Ausangate trek is known as a challenging trek due to its mountainous terrain and high altitude. Hikers need to have good physical condition and experience with high-altitude trekking to successfully complete this route.
Prepare for the Ausangate trek with these steps:
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